Dr Andrew Huberman: Live Event Insights

Ever wondered how to switch on your creative mind to solve pesky challenges? I recently sat in on a talk with Dr Andrew Huberman at the Melbourne Convention Centre with my wife and my friend Wong, and I felt like I’d stumbled upon a treasure chest for the brain. His insights on engaging our visual thinking grabbed me most.

In this podcast episode, Ida and I talk about his technique to boost our problem-solving skills by tapping into our visual mind. We also reflect on how these ideas can help those of us with dyslexia or ADHD. It sparked a lively conversation, so I hope you’ll find some gems for your own life.

Seeing Dr Andrew Huberman Live

There’s nothing quite like hearing someone share their research in person. Dr Huberman has a way of layering practical neuroscience with grounding empathy. He shared why visual thinking isn’t just about daydreaming. It’s a potent, nearly underused tool.

We sat there, pencil and notebook in hand, ready to scribble down every tidbit. There was so much good stuff—and I especially loved how he explained the power of our eyes and mind even when we don’t realise it.

Activating the Visual Mind

Visual thinking is more than imagining shapes or daydreaming. It’s about directing our eyes—both physically and mentally—to open up new perspectives. Dr Huberman described it in a simple, clear way:

“If you want to unlock creativity or solve a challenge, try shifting your gaze or changing your environment to support dynamic thinking.”

He believes that by deliberately adjusting our viewpoint—like looking up at the sky or focusing on a distant object—we let our brains float into new territory. That’s where solutions often surface. Ida and I chatted about how this feels so true for people who are prone to daydreaming. It’s not just about drifting off; there’s real brain science behind this behaviour.

Why Visual Problem-Solving Matters

When we’re stuck in a loop, we tend to stare at the same spot or bury ourselves in an identical approach. If we channel our senses differently—especially our sight—we might shake up stubborn thinking. Here are a few ways Dr Huberman’s suggestions can help:

• Break mental ruts faster by changing your gaze.
• Tap into fresh ideas when logic alone isn’t enough.
• Help the dyslexic or ADHD mind regulate focus with a quick visual interruption.
• Find deeper understanding by metaphorically stepping back.

This feels especially powerful for those of us who sometimes get lost in our own minds. Adding a physical element, like looking outside the window or stepping onto the balcony, can work wonders. It’s not magic—it’s just giving your brain a break to let better thoughts flow in.

Bringing Visual Thinking into Everyday Life

A quick shift in scene can nudge our minds onto a new track. Here are a few ways I’ve started using Dr Huberman’s tips:

1. Walking Breaks: Even a short stroll around the block can reset your visual field. I find I come back with a clearer head.
2. Mental Imagery: Close your eyes or glance around, and visualise what success looks like. It helps me calm down when I feel overwhelmed.
3. Guided Moments: Look up at the ceiling or out the window before deep diving into a task. This small pause can shift your internal gear.

These strategies turn what used to feel like a wandering mind into an intentional, brain-friendly practice. If you’re like me, you’ll find it oddly freeing.

Key Takeaways

• Our eyes open gateways to creative solutions.
• Simple actions like shifting our gaze or environment can reset the brain.
• Visual thinking isn’t just for the arts; it’s a scientifically supported problem-solver.
• Small daily changes can have a real impact on dyslexic or ADHD minds.

If you’re curious to hear more about Dr Huberman’s talk and how Ida and I are testing these ideas, just press play on the podcast episode at the top of this page. You’ll get a deeper dive and a few laughs along the way.

Thanks for reading, and I hope this sparks new ways to harness your visual mind. Don’t forget to tune into the full episode for the complete discussion!